Internet Addiction May Signal Problems, Study

Researchers in Canada found a connection between a strong dependence on the internet and an increased risk for mental health issues like depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, and inattention in college students. Students addicted to the internet also had problems with time management and planning.

The recent study, which involved 254 freshmen, evaluated internet habits using the Internet Addiction Test, developed in 1998, as well as a new tool based more closely on how the internet is typically used today. According to researchers, 107 students displayed problematic internet use and 33 met the criteria for internet addiction.

These findings are preliminary and it isn't known whether mental health problems are the cause or result of internet addiction. Further research using a more varied population is needed.